Alva Bontrager

Alva Bontrager breeds Percheron horses in Mount Ayr, IA, serving Ringgold County and the Midwest near Des Moines. They adhere to widely accepted breeding guidelines with regular veterinary health checks and annual evaluations of gait and conformation. Foals are raised in spacious open pastures with natural grass forage and receive daily socialization with handlers and access to sturdy shelters designed for seasonal changes. They schedule regular farrier visits to maintain sound hooves and carefully track each foal’s growth and health milestones.

The operation traces its roots to a family farm tradition that emphasizes gentle handling and early groundwork. Broodmares and stallions live as part of a herd to support natural behaviors and healthy development. Visitors often note the calm temperament and solid build of the young horses. Several horses have gone on to gentle trail riding and light farm work under experienced handlers.